Attractions & Recreation

Natural or Historical Island Fun

See and Explore.

What does 150 miles of unspoiled, natural coastline have to offer?
Tons of exciting opportunities! There’s a lot more to do than hanging at the beach or partying all day on Put-in-Bay…
Get outside and enjoy what the Lake Erie Islands are famous for – the rich, gorgeous, natural environment

Families can enjoy:

lounging, tanning, and swimming on free, public beaches all along the coast of Lake Erie.

year-round fishing for walleye or perch, or other Lake Erie delights. Hop on fishing charter boat and spend the day on the lake. If you don’t fish, be sure to sample the freshest catch at a local restaurant.

the best birding opportunities – observe blue herons, egrets, warblers and other North American beauties from Hummingbirds to Bald Eagles

land sports like hiking, golfing, biking, tennis, basketball, and a park just for dogs (and their owners, of course), picnicking, grilling, camping, or just playing on the nearby playground.

Keep it natural!
The Lake Erie Islands are home to tons of State Parks from Huron to Sandusky and from Port Clinton to Toledo. Relax in the quiet beauty of your surroundings wherever you are and take in the richness of the islands.

You can find numerous Metroparks throughout the islands as well. There are plenty of beautiful, natural areas that offer visitors all kinds of opportunities to explore, discover and enjoy every moment on the islands.

Nature preserves, nature trails, observatory sites, wildlife areas and all kinds of gardens provide visitors with a place to go and observe everything that Lake Erie Islands region is famous for!

Check it out!
Navigate your own journey from Put-in-Bay to Sandusky, or take the advice of local experts and enjoy some incredible opportunities at:

Black Swamp Bird Observatory

Glacial Grooves

Magee Marsh

James H. McBride Arboretum

Jane Coates Wildflower Trail

Kuehnle Wildlife Area

Lake Erie Islands Nature & Wildlife Center

Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge

East Harbor State Park

Schedel Gardens

Of “Historical” interest:

Marblehead Peninsula Lighthouse

Lakeside Chautaqua

Walcott “Keeper’s” House (Marblehead)

Johnson’s Island Cemetery

President Hayes Museum (Freemont)

Merry-go-round Museum (Sandusky)

Perry Monument and Peace Museum (Put-in-Bay)

Port Clinton Historical Society Museum (Port Clinton)

Take advantage of all that is available at the Lake Erie Islands!
Visit www.shoresandislands.com for more information on what’s out there and where to begin.

Make sure to browse the other attractions section of this site as well for our “locals” recommendations!